Governments are long overdue a good authentication system. Note that passports provide passable ones but not everyone has a passport. If you desire an optiona

Governments are long overdue a good authentication system. Note that passports provide passable ones but not everyone has a passport. If you desire an optional government-enforced ID scheme, Estonia provides some even to non-resident. You need to go to an Estonian embassy with a valid passport and for a sum ($200 IIRC) they'll give you a card and a USB card reader that allows to sign certificates in a way that is authenticated by the Estonian government.